Freight class: Everything you need to know

Freight class is an essential part of Less than Truckload (LTL) shipping . Getting this shipment detail right is critical, but that doesn’t mean it has to be complicated. Whether you ship regularly or you’re just getting started, understanding the ins and outs of freight class can help you avoid unexpected costs and streamline your shipping process. And we’re making it simple with this guide that will help you understand freight class, upcoming changes to the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC), and how Freightquote by C.H. Robinson simplifies the process for small businesses.

What is freight class and why does it matter?

Freight class is a standardized way of categorizing shipments based on their transportability. It’s defined by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) and helps carriers determine shipping rates. Freight class is based on four key factors:

• Density—Weight relative to size
• Stowability—How easily the freight fits in a trailer
• Handling—Special care or equipment needed
• Liability—Risk of damage or theft

Knowing your correct freight class is crucial to getting an accurate quote and avoiding unexpected reclassification fees. Freight class ranges from Class 50 to Class 500, with lower classes generally being denser and easier to transport. If you need guidance on determining your freight class for your products, check out this helpful freight class calculator and chart to help you figure it out.

How dimensional rating simplifies freight class

Dimensional rating, also known as density-based freight class, calculates class based on the shipment’s volume and weight rather than a fixed category. This approach provides more accurate pricing and prevents overpaying for shipments that don’t fit neatly into traditional classifications. Many carriers have already adopted dimensional pricing, and it’s fast becoming the industry standard. As more companies shift toward this model, understanding how your freight's density impacts cost is key to avoiding unexpected charges and optimizing your shipping strategy. That’s why Freightquote by C.H. Robinson uses dimensional rating to keep freight shipping simple for small businesses.

Upcoming changes to NMFC in 2025

The NMFTA regularly updates the NMFC to reflect changes in shipping trends, packaging, and product classifications. In 2025, several updates are expected to impact how freight is classified. These changes will emphasize density-based freight classification, making accurate weight and measurement more important than ever. The goal of these updates is to create more consistency and fairness in pricing while at the same time ensuring efficiency for carriers and shippers. But don’t worry—when you ship with Freightquote by C.H. Robinson, you can rest assured our online quoting tool stays up to date with the latest NMFC changes, so you always get accurate classifications and hassle-free quoting.

How Freightquote by C.H. Robinson makes freight class simple

If accurately calculating freight class sounds complicated, not to worry. Freightquote makes it easy for small businesses by including density-based calculation and assigning a freight class automatically, all within our simple online quoting tool. The Freight Class Calculator automatically determines the correct class based on the shipment’s dimensions and weight. This means shippers don’t have to refer to freight class charts or try to guess their freight class—just enter the details, and the tool does the rest.

Ensuring your freight class is accurate

Accurate freight classification prevents costly reclassification fees from carriers. To ensure freight class is assigned accurately in the quoting process, and to avoid extra charges, follow these best practices when quoting:

• Measure twice, ship once— Always measure and weigh your shipment after it’s fully packaged.
• Enter exact dimensions and weight—Small discrepancies can impact freight class and cost.
• Use the Freightquote tool—Let the automated system determine your density-based class.

Saving money on your shipment

Beyond accurate classification, packaging efficiency plays a major role in shipping costs. With density-based freight class, optimizing packaging can lower your freight class and your costs! Here are some tips to optimize packaging and save money:

• Right-size your packaging— Minimize excess air and empty space to reduce shipment volume.
• Pack items tightly— Increase density by eliminating unnecessary voids.
• Choose stackable, efficient packing— Stowability impacts costs, so consider how your items fit within a trailer.